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7 June 2025
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Hong Kong warehouse fire requires massive firefighting effort
A warehouse fire in Tin Shui Wai that injured two people was “largely put out” on Wednesday morning, 28 May 2025, after raging for more than 20 hours, the Hong Kong Fire Services Department (FSD) has announced. A total of 430 firefighters and medics, 94 fire engines and nine ambulances were deployed to the scene in Ha Tsuen, Tin Shui Wai, after the fire began at around 12h40pm on Tuesday. The Fire Services Department (FSD) reported the fire engulfed an area measuring 200 metres by 200 metres, with temperatures near the core reaching 550 degrees Celsius. Drones were deployed to survey the scene from above, while firefighting robots assisted ground crews in high-risk zones.
Fire services received the emergency alert about the fire at around 12h40pm on 27 May 2025. The flames rapidly engulfed stored goods within the warehouse, sending thick columns of black smoke towering over northern Hong Kong. Within just one hour, the situation escalated dramatically, with authorities upgrading the fire to a No 3 alarm fire at 13h33.
Firefighters had to deploy six water jets and six breathing apparatus teams to combat the fierce blaze, which persisted for over 20 hours.
Wong Yu-fai of the Hong Kong FSD, said the warehouse contained mostly electrical appliances, clothing and other items, and there were no findings of toxic chemicals released in the blaze.
Property damage
The fire consumed multiple interconnected warehouses spanning an estimated 200m x 200m. Cargo trucks and significant inventory on-site are likely damaged or completely destroyed. Internal temperatures were estimated to reach up to 550°C (1,022°F).
Casualties
At least two people were injured, including a 53-year-old worker who suffered second-degree burns to his back and neck, and a firefighter who reported feeling unwell. Over 200 people were safely evacuated.
Firefighting challenges
Firefighters encountered structural collapse and difficulties with water access due to long hose runs.
Community impact
Due to dense smoke and unusual odours, residents in nearby residential areas were advised to keep their doors and windows closed for health safety.
Cause
The official cause of the fire is currently under investigation by the Fire Services Department's investigation team.
Rescuers also managed to save five dogs. None of the canines were injured.
Sources: Real Logistics
Fire services received the emergency alert about the fire at around 12h40pm on 27 May 2025. The flames rapidly engulfed stored goods within the warehouse, sending thick columns of black smoke towering over northern Hong Kong. Within just one hour, the situation escalated dramatically, with authorities upgrading the fire to a No 3 alarm fire at 13h33.
Firefighters had to deploy six water jets and six breathing apparatus teams to combat the fierce blaze, which persisted for over 20 hours.
Wong Yu-fai of the Hong Kong FSD, said the warehouse contained mostly electrical appliances, clothing and other items, and there were no findings of toxic chemicals released in the blaze.
Property damage
The fire consumed multiple interconnected warehouses spanning an estimated 200m x 200m. Cargo trucks and significant inventory on-site are likely damaged or completely destroyed. Internal temperatures were estimated to reach up to 550°C (1,022°F).
Casualties
At least two people were injured, including a 53-year-old worker who suffered second-degree burns to his back and neck, and a firefighter who reported feeling unwell. Over 200 people were safely evacuated.
Firefighting challenges
Firefighters encountered structural collapse and difficulties with water access due to long hose runs.
Community impact
Due to dense smoke and unusual odours, residents in nearby residential areas were advised to keep their doors and windows closed for health safety.
Cause
The official cause of the fire is currently under investigation by the Fire Services Department's investigation team.
Rescuers also managed to save five dogs. None of the canines were injured.
Sources: Real Logistics
